About The Brand - The world of watchmaking is a fascinating place with many brands that have been around for over a century. Vacheron Constantin, the oldest watchmaker, has been around since 1755 and has inspired numerous other watchmakers. The company started in Geneva with Jean-Marc Vacheron, who worked tirelessly to make high-grade pocket watches. In 1819, Vacheron et Constantin was founded by Vacheron's grandson, Jacques Barthélémi Vacheron, and businessman François Constantin.
In 1875, Vacheron et Constantin moved its workshop to Geneva, where it now houses a boutique and a Bucherer dealership. In 1880, the company adopted the Maltese Cross as its logo, which is still used today. In 1901, Vacheron et Constantin received the Geneva Seal mark, ensuring quality and reducing counterfeiters.
The company has been highly regarded since its beginning, having been owned by many royal families and members of nobility. In 1918, the American Expeditionary Force ordered some Vacheron et Constantin pocket watches for use in France's train system. In the 1950s, the clientele of watchmakers like Vacheron et Constantin changed dramatically, with wristwatches becoming smaller and thinner due to the aftermath of World War II. In the 1970s, Vacheron et Constantin hired Gérald Genta to design a steel luxury watch, the 222, which was the maison's 222nd anniversary present. However, the 222 still has its 1970s looks, making it a highly sought-after piece today.
